The Power of Love

But when the time came for the kindness and love of God our Savior to appear, then he saved us - not because we were good enough to be saved, but because of his kindness and pity - by washing away our sins and giving us the new joy of the indwelling Holy Spirit whom he poured out upon us with wonderful fullness - and all because of what Jesus Christ our Savior did so that he could declare us good in God's eyes - all because of his great kindness; and now we can share in the wealth of the eternal life he gives us, and we are eagerly looking forward to receiving it. These things I have told you are all true. Insist on them so that Christians will be careful to do good deeds all the time, for this is not only right, but it brings results. Titus 3:4-8 (TLB)

How precious is your constant love, O God! All humanity takes refuge in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 36:7 (TLB)

Doug Wingert lives in Arizona. When their family relocated to the desert southwest,about the only relief from the relentless heat of the summer months was a trip to the public swimming pool. Doug's parents enrolled his brothers and him in swimming lessons. Doug can still recall the fear during some of those first lessons, especially when they were taken into the deep end of the pool. But their instructors were kind, and they trusted them to keep them safe.

Many years later, Doug and his wife had three small children of their own, and they needed to teach them to swim so that they could be safe in and near the water. His wife, being a certified water safety instructor, taught them. Doug recalls some thrashing , splashing, and even some crying, but their children knew their teacher was always there to support them and keep them safe from danger, and that she would not let them go. Eventually their children swam very well, competed on swim teams, and were rewarded with ribbons and trophies.

Now, in his later years Doug sometimes reflects on how those swim lessons are similar to his relationship with God who is his teacher and is worthy of all his trust. Yet there are times when he thrashes about and feels consumed by fear. But then he remembers that God is love and will not let him go.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your everlasting love that surpasses our understanding. Help us to remain devoted to you, in Jesus' name. Amen.